Archaeological Dig at Peel Hill Motte October 2008

Peel Hill Motte is an important ancient monument in the centre of Thorne. It is the base of a Motte and Bailey, an early type of castle built by the Normans just after 1066 and depicted on the Bayeux tapestry. However it has suffered damage and erosion over a number of years so a restoration programme is being carried out by the Town Council. A major part of this was the work carried out in 2007 comprising the infilling and turfing of damaged areas and the construction of steps to the top and a path round the base so the Motte has now been largely restored to its former glory.

Peel Hill Motte is an important ancient monument

Funding has now been obtained from the Rural Target Fund and Thorne-Moorends Town Council for a further phase of work to be carried out in 2008 including a Community archaeology project and a Archaeological Dig led by Sheffield University Archaeology Unit (ARCUS) will take place in the week of (Mon to Sun) 13th to 19th October 2008.

The plan is to dig up to four trenches in an effort to gain a greater understanding of the history of the Motte. If any interesting finds are discovered then work will concentrate on that trench. There is plenty of scope for local people of all ages to be involved and in particular we would like to encourage the participation of school pupils. This is especially because the preservation and future well being of the monument largely depends on the understanding and careful use of the site by local people.

Individuals and groups are encouraged to visit the site during the week and there will be opportunities do practical activities under the supervision of professional archaeologists and everybody will be welcome to call in at the site during the week.